As firecrackers signal the beginning of Diwali in Mumbai, experts and pet owners shine light on how to keep house pets and streeties safe
Mumbaikars light firecrackers opposite the Marine Drive promenade. FILE PIC/ASHISH RAJE
Our dogs are petrified of loud crackers. I’ve seen them shivering and hiding under tables. The stray dogs that I take care of are even closer to the action. It’s a difficult phase to navigate,” says Worli resident Aditya Natarajan. For veterinarian Dr Tanya Shringarpure in Kandivli, it’s that time of the year when she asks pet parents to watch out for symptoms like sneezing, watering eyes and skin allergies. “The best option, as of now, would be to keep your pets home,” she advises.
Stray advice
Spot an animal in distress on the streets? Keep these points in mind:
1 Stray cats and dogs, both need a breather and time to settle after they are startled. Allow them to take temporary shelter in a secure place like society premises, parking area, or basement.
2 Seasoned streeties will usually find a way to return to their pack once calm. Do not panic or rush your efforts.
3 If you spot an injured bird, pick the bird carefully with a cloth with eyes covered and a firm grip, place it in a ventilated cardboard box, and contact a professional.
4 Do not try to self-diagnose and self-medicate. Never use human medicines on animals, unless advised.
5 Do not apply Dettol on animal wounds. Use Betadine instead.
6 Never forcefully feed an animal that is already in distress.
Pawan Sharma, founder, Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare (RAWW)
Pet parents’ speak
Prajakta Samudre
Once the larger firecrackers come out, I keep Simba indoors, and play calm music to divert his attention. I have slowly moved our walks to an earlier time to accustom him to shorter, evening walks during Diwali.
Aditya Natarajan
I’ve recently purchased ear muffs for Ibby and Rani. Any standard muffs from your local pet store will help muffle, if not fully silence the noise. Ensure your curtains and doors are closed at all times.
Arshad Risaldar
Jasmine, like most cats, loves boxes. I am building a makeshift shelter using a cardboard box and punching holes in it for ventilation. A comfy home and a few treats at hand will help us ride the storm.
Helplines
REPRESENTATION PIC/ISTOCK
1916 BMC’s hotline for stray, domestic and pets distress calls
1926 Forest Department’s helpline for cases that involve wild animals
9869780202
RAWW (pan-Mumbai)
8424032020
PAL Foundation (pan-Mumbai)
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